The Mountain Dude Podcast

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Zach Bowhay is one of the most consistently successful elk hunters in the West. In this episode, he joins the Mountain Dude Podcast to break down what it really takes to fill tags year after year—without relying on hype, gimmicks, or lucky draws. From generational hunting knowledge to mental toughness, Zach shares the mindset and strategies that have kept him punching tags across multiple states for de...

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In this raw and hilarious episode, Nate Illingsworth joins the Mountain Dude Podcast to share his insane journey—from nearly burning down his house mid-romance to losing 80 pounds and tackling backcountry elk hunts head-on. Nate opens up about fitness, faith, mental resilience, and the power of doing hard things—all with a wild twist of humor and honesty.

If you’re into elk hunting, CrossFit-s...

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In this episode of Gear Talk, we go deep into clothing systems for backcountry hunting. From the hot debate of Merino wool vs synthetic base layers to how to layer effectively without overpacking, this is your ultimate breakdown of what to wear, when, and why.

Whether you’re prepping for spring bear or late-season elk, this episode is packed with field-tested insight and hard-earned gear wisdo...

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In this episode, we dive deep into the backcountry, from the comfort of basecamp hunts to the grind of true backpack-style missions. We swap personal hunting stories, break down gear essentials like backcountry chairs, and talk about how to balance comfort and pack weight when you're miles deep.

We also hit on one of the most underrated challenges: nutrition. What to bring, what to leave,...

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In this episode, we sit down with Clint Easley, a former architect to the stars turned full-time filmmaker and mountain hunter. From designing homes for Hollywood elites to filming in the remote wilds of Alaska, Clint’s story is one of bold transitions, relentless creativity, and a calling to something deeper. This conversation is packed with humor, grit, and insight into how passion and purpose can in...

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In this episode, we sit down with legendary hunting guide Dan Whitmus, a man who’s lived over 30 years in the wilderness guiding hunters through Alaska, Africa, New Zealand, and the American West. Dan shares jaw-dropping stories, including surviving a self-inflicted knife wound deep in the bush, 300+ pound solo packouts, close calls with grizzlies, and the spiritual journey of chasing sheep and wolves ...

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Justin and Kate Small, two of the best predator hunters on the planet, share their expertise on wolf hunting tactics that can make you a more effective hunter.

• Kate's background includes nursing in Tanzania where she spent four months providing healthcare in poverty-stricken areas, including two months living with the Maasai tribe
• Justin grew up hunting out of necessity and credit...

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In this episode, our host Chris Young shares the full story of his 2025 Idaho spring bear hunt. From rivers crossed with pack rafts to glassing for days in high mountain wind, this conversation captures the highs, lows, and lessons of a truly special backcountry experience. Along the way, Chris reflects on the power of sticking it out until the last light—and how faith, friendship, and a relentless dri...

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 In this episode of the Mountain Dude Podcast, filmmaker and backcountry hunter Martin Chagnovich shares the story behind his film Chasing 200, which documents his years-long pursuit of a 200-inch mule deer buck in the rugged Utah mountains. The conversation explores Martin’s roots in hunting, growing up in a hunting family, and turning his outdoor passion into a full-time career through storytelling a...

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In this kickoff episode, host Chris Young along with the Initial Ascent owners Joe Elliston and Dennis Stokes gather around the table to set the stage for something bigger than gear talk or hunting stories (though you’ll get plenty of both). This podcast is about diving deep into faith, failure, triumph, and the relentless pursuit of becoming better men, hunters, fathers, and leaders.

From sharing ...